Gene was born 77 years ago on November 24, 1946 in Cobleskill to Leta (Engle) and Frederick J. Coons. He attended Middleburgh Central School before enlisting in the United States Marine Corps, where he proudly served his country from July 27, 1964 until his honorable discharge on July 26, 1968. He served in the Dominican Republic in 1965 before serving in Vietnam, where he was part of a platoon of 500, and was one of only five who were blessed to return home to their families. He fought for his country on the front lines, earning him three purple hearts.
Gene enjoyed working on the farm in his younger years and worked in construction for many years after the Marines. He was also a supervisor at GE for a time, and was an avid coon hunter with his favorite coon hound, Lady. He enjoyed a good game of pool, arm wrestling anyone who dared to try to take him on, playing pitch, and his Miller Ponies. His quick wit and sarcastic humor guaranteed that he would leave you shaking your head in laughter.
Gene was predeceased by his son Frederick “Ricky” Gene Coons, which broke his heart. He spent many years missing his son tremendously and has looked forward to joining him.
Loving him forever are his daughters: Michelle Cholewa and husband Stephen of Yulee, FL and Crystal Leek and husband Tony of Loxahatchee, FL; grandchildren: Jessica Burrell, Brandon Burdick, Bradyn Cholewa and Skye Cholewa; great-grandchildren: Lillian Burrell, Emma Burrell, Connor Burrell, and Carter Burrell; his siblings: Linda Christenson, Darlene Wullschleger, Cathie Ryder, Joanne Lawyer, Sandra Dockery and June Carr. Gene was also predeceased by his sister: Terry Engle.
All are invited to a graveside committal service, with Military Honors at 1:00PM on Saturday, December 16, 2023 at Middleburgh Cemetery. A celebration of Gene’s life will be held at BJ’s pub on Monday, December 18, 2023 from 5:00-7:00 pm. Coltrain Funeral Home, LLC of Middleburgh is honored to be caring for Gene and his family.
Memorial donations in Gene’s honor are requested to go to the Middleburgh VFW Post #2161, c/o Roger Becker, 168 Prospect Street, Middleburgh, NY 12122
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